The Washington Mystics and the WNBA are deeply committed to the community and make hundreds of appearances during the season and the off-season. The Mystics and WNBA Cares focus on programs that improve the quality of life for all people, with special emphasis on promoting health and fitness, breast health awareness, reading and youth basketball programs. The league and its players are continuously recognized for their commitment to the community.
| Community Theme Nights/Partners: |
American Heart Association - Go Red for Women
Go Red for Women is an initiative launched by the American Heart Association with a mission of lowering the rate of heart disease and stroke among women. Through education and programming, Go Red For Women inspires women all over the world to make positive lifestyle changes. February 5, 2010 is National Wear Red Day, an annual event in which supporters all over the United States are encouraged to wear red and help raise awareness of heart-health risks among women. For more information, please visit www.goredforwomen.org.
Breast Health Awareness Night sponsored by Sibley Memorial Hospital
The WNBA Breast Health Awareness program is designed to educate women on ways to prevent breast cancer, with a secondary goal of raising funds for the cause. Through the generosity of its fans, the WNBA has raised over 2 million dollars in support of breast health awareness. On August 30, 2009, Sibley Memorial Hospital and the Mystics teamed up to host a post-game auction, which raised over $39,000 to benefit the Sullivan Center for Breast Health. For more information, please visit www.sibley.org/breast_health_center.
Lupus Foundation
Lupus is a chronic disease that may affect different parts of the body, such as the skin, kidneys, joints, and blood. The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) is a non-profit organization working to discover the cause of and cure for the disease, while providing support for those affected. The LFA was formed in 1977 and currently recognizes 300 chapters and support groups worldwide. For more information, please visit www.lupus.org.
March of Dimes
March of Dimes is a nonprofit organization on a mission to prevent birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. Researchers, educators and community members work with the organization toward a common goal of improving the quality of life among babies. For more information, please visit www.marchofdimes.com.
Nothing but Nets
Nothing But Nets is a campaign to prevent the spread of malaria, which is the number one cause of death of children in Africa. Nothing But Nets works to educate on the importance of bed nets, which are instrumental in malaria prevention. By working with your local community, you can help combat malaria. Team up with your friends, family or community group to raise funds and increase awareness of malaria prevention. For more information, please visit www.nothingbutnets.net.
Through the Kitchen Door
Through the Kitchen Door utilizes the comfort of the kitchen to teach simple cooking skills in an effort to improve the self-confidence, professionalism and communication skills among immigrants, low-income adults and at-risk youth. The organization’s programming is designed to encourage positive life choices, success in school and a stable home environment. For more information, please visit www.kitchendoor.org.
Until there’s a Cure
Until There’s A Cure Foundation is devoted to eliminating HIV/AIDS through raising awareness and necessary funding. The main goal of the foundation is to subsidize prevention education, services for those whose lives have been affected by HIV or AIDS, and vaccine development through funds raised by The Bracelet campaign. The Bracelet tries to unite people in the fight against HIV/AIDS, reminding people that the fight against HIV/AIDS must be one of compassion and love. For more information, please visit www.utac.org.
